Systems Integration - Digital Systems Program

Background

Network Rail Consulting (NRC) is the Systems Integrator on the Digital Systems Program project leading the delivery of integrating European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 across the Sydney Rail network. The Digital Systems Program will replace legacy signalling and train controls with modern, intelligent systems.

Systems Integration in the Digital Systems Program

Systems Integration activities in the Digital Systems Program extensively use an Integrated Test laboratory (ITL). This provides technical benefits of testing outside the live environment and plays a critical role in demonstrating ETCS Level 2 operations to the operator, winning the ‘hearts and minds’ of our stakeholders. Network Rail Consulting helped the client define and improve this strategy before moving into the tactical implementation of the ITL, defining requirements with suppliers and integrating a multi-supplier fit out.

Interoperability is always a major concern when deploying multi-supplier systems. In Sydney, Australia we have developed interoperable specifications based on the European Rail Agency (ERA) standards. Working with suppliers to define requirements and interfaces that allow for multiple trackside suppliers to operate in the Sydney rail network and be seamlessly operated by one Traffic Management System (TMS). We managed the interface development through to ITL-based and operational testing, demonstrating the interoperability of multi-supplier TMS, trackside, and onboard systems.

A consideration that remains constant for ETCS Level 2 delivery regardless of location, is finding the correct SME resources. In Sydney, Australia we have provided a mixture of ETCS and TMS operations experts based both locally and across the Eastern Australian states, with expertise supplemented by our European-based SMEs. Our overseas experts have been able to deliver lessons learnt in real time from other ongoing deployments of ETCS globally, as well as share previously attained operational and technical experiences from already commissioned systems.

How We Can Help

We have an optimised method for working between the local and overseas resources, and transferring knowledge to blended client teams, embedding this knowledge in the client organisation for future deployments. With offices in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, we have an extensive understanding of UK, Australian and other rail systems. For details on how we can help you, visit https://www.networkrailconsulting.com/regional-focus/australia/contact-us to contact a member of the team.

Katherine Stowe

Service Line Director, Systems Integration and Technical Services
Network Rail Consulting